My local area has come alive with warm-weather entertainment, inspiring me to catch a few shows on the days and nights heading into summer. Last year, two of my high school friends and I went to Rose Tree Park for a free concert. With such great music, I couldn’t wait to see who’d be on this year’s schedule of performers. But along with the shows held there, the warmer months always pique my interest in fun activities and events that my friends and I could try to meet up for sometime.

Wayne Music Festival

A crowd of people milled about, others kicked back in outdoor seating, while music played just up the street as I arrived. The festival stretched between the nearest train station and Lancaster Avenue, along North Wayne Avenue. At that intersection, a police blockade was set up and just beyond, a band entertained from under the shade of a tent. So, even passersby in their cars could catch a glimpse of the festivities as they rode through downtown Wayne.

One band on a larger stage was going through member introductions and then the lead singer talked about songs on the set list. He said into his mic, “Freebird,” to which people in the crowd called out, “Freebird!” A beer garden was set up under a large tent within sight of the stage, allowing festival attendees to sit, relax, try a brew and listen to live tunes.

The smell of steaks, hotdogs and more festival food filled the air as they sizzled on vendor grills, releasing an occasional puff of smoke. A few restaurants also lined the street with tents just outside of their dining establishment.

Two that I’ve been to before and love include Christopher’s A Neighborhood Place and The Great American Pub. Outside of the pub, located on one corner, trees were decorated with strings of light, adding to the fun-filled atmosphere. Christopher’s is just down N. Wayne Avenue from the pub, walking toward Lancaster Avenue. I still have to try Matador next time I’m in the area.

Several vendors at the festival had their craftwork on display and one depicted images of Philadelphia icons in art. Necklaces with colorful gemstones were lined up in cases at another table. Between the shopping vendors and Wayne stores, this festival is definitely an event at which someone can make a day out of while enjoying great music. Main Point Books is one of the downtown stores, located along N. Wayne Avenue.

I’m not from within the city of Philadelphia. But for those who are or new to the area, Wayne is accessible by train and ready to enjoy when you stop at the Septa Wayne Station. This year’s festival was held for one day – Saturday, June 10. I’ll be keeping an eye out for the 2018 event as the second weekend of the month gets closer.

State Street Blues in Media

I found out a little late about this festival, held in downtown Media, Pa. and decided to check it out next year. Besides, I still had plans to attend the Wayne Music Festival. With many shops and dining options, the downtown area of Media is always a great place to visit. It’s another popular spot for festivals, including those for food and crafts. For more on that, check out my blog post on the 35th Annual Food and Craft Festival from fall 2015. So, having heard various blues songs over the years, but not actually attending an event focusing on it, I’m looking forward to going to the State Street Blues next time. It’ll be the chance to take in some new entertainment throughout town at participating venues.

Rose Tree Park Summer Concert Series

This annual event features a variety of music genres by bands who perform on an outdoor stage. In recent years, I’ve been to see The Fabulous Greaseband, Irish band Blackthorn and The British Invasion Years band. Along with classics by rockers from across the pond, British Invasion also covered classic American hits. The concert series just recently started up for this year and I’m hoping to check out many more shows in the current line-up.

I enjoy going to Rose Tree not only for the concerts, which are free, but also for other events held there. Some of these include a Wounded Warriors Walk and car shows. With a huge American flag waving overhead, it’s a great place for all-American activities.

Since I mentioned car shows, I went to one early in June, set up in the back lot at Delaware Park Casino. I’ll be sharing some favorite photos from that event next.

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About caroldwyer

A freelance photographer and blogger, I'm also a non-traditional graduate of Cabrini College with a B.A. in communication, minor in English and concentration in film studies. As a student, I was a staff writer, photographer and copy editor for the Loquitur. In my final semester, I assisted in promoting campus literary events for Woodcrest Literary Magazine. I love travel, historic places, nature, wildlife and the arts. I hope to be involved in some way with one of those areas throughout my media career. Currently, I'm pursuing my M.F.A. in creative writing and publishing. Read my film blog at http://cdwyerfilminspired.wordpress.com - and my literary blog at http://cdwyerbookishgrad.wordpress.com